Robbo prepares to welcome Zolly back

Hard-hitting defender Paul Robinson insists all friendships will be put to one side on Saturday when former fans' favourite Zoltan Gera returns to The Hawthorns. Left-back Robinson is set to come up against the Fulham man when the Hungarian international returns for the first time with his new club after leaving on a Bosman in the summer.

During his four-years at The Hawthorns Gera and Robinson forged a close friendship with the two still in close contact. The pair were instrument in helping the Baggies clinch their first title in more than 80-years and reach the FA Cup semi-final last season, and although admiring Gera's ability, Robbo insists it will be business as usual as Albion look to add to their 7-points this term.

"A fit Zolly is an exceptional player and if he stays fit throughout the season Fulham have got an excellent signing," Albion's No.3 said.

"He can score goals and is a problem for any team with the way he plays.

"He is certainly a dangerman for us on Saturday and we have to be careful.

"I will be having a little chat with him!

"Seriously, Zolly knows what kind of player I am, and that I want to win, and if there is a 50/50 there I will go in for it with him.

"But we won't lose sleep over it because we'll always be friends.

"We will talk before the game and after it but during the 90 minutes we will both want to win."

Gera's department was a disappointment not only for the fans but the players alike with Robinson revealing his dressing-room antics are still missed.

"He is a lovely lad and we were gutted to see him go," Robbo continued.

"But he made the decision and that is part and parcel of football and life.

"He moved on but we do miss him in the dressing room because of his personality."